- The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) confirmed the safety of TELA Maize, a genetically modified crop, for consumption in Nigeria. Gloria Ogbaki, NBMA’s Head of Information and Public Relations, assured the public of the crop’s safety following comprehensive risk assessments and evaluations by various experts and relevant agencies.
- TELA Maize underwent extensive safety assessments involving multiple stakeholders, including the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Standard Organisation of Nigeria, and Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service, among others. The thorough evaluation process aimed to address any potential risks associated with the genetically modified crop.
- Ogbaki emphasized the significant benefits of TELA Maize, such as its resistance to pests and drought, which could lead to higher yields and improved food security. She highlighted NBMA’s commitment to transparency and unbiased decision-making, reassuring Nigerians of the agency’s dedication to safeguarding their health while promoting agricultural innovation.
TELA Maize Deemed Safe for Consumption by NBMA
ABUJA, Nigeria – The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) has reassured Nigerians of the safety of consuming TELA Maize, a genetically modified crop recently approved for cultivation and consumption in the country.
The assurance was given by Gloria Ogbaki, Head of Information and Public Relations at NBMA, in a statement released on Monday.
Responding to public concerns regarding the introduction of TELA Maize, Ogbaki emphasized the agency’s commitment to the health and safety of Nigerians.
“NBMA wishes to state that the safety and health of Nigerians are of topmost importance; we will not compromise on this,” she said.
Ogbaki underscored the significance of maize as a staple crop in Nigeria, highlighting the agency’s meticulous approach to ensuring the crop’s safety.
“We take into serious cognisance the concerns of Nigerians because maize is a staple crop which is of great importance to the country. NBMA is committed to ensuring transparency, safety, and unbiased decision-making concerning genetically modified organisms,” she added.
The NBMA conducted an extensive risk assessment and analysis of TELA Maize to ascertain its safety for human consumption.
This assessment involved experts and scientists from various sectors, including academia and other relevant agencies.
The rigorous evaluation process aimed to address any potential risks associated with the genetically modified crop.
Key stakeholders involved in the certification process included the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Standard Organisation of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service.
Additionally, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, National Agricultural Seed Council, and several university research centers played crucial roles in the evaluation.
“They worked with our internal review process and confirmed that TELA Maize meets safety standards,” Ogbaki stated.
She called on Nigerians to remain calm and place their trust in the thorough evaluation process conducted by NBMA and its partners.
Ogbaki emphasized that TELA Maize’s approval was based on scientific evidence, highlighting its significant benefits to farmers.
The genetically modified maize is designed to withstand various challenges such as pests and drought, which can lead to higher yields and improved food security.
The statement from NBMA is expected to address the concerns of Nigerians who have expressed apprehensions about the safety of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
By assuring the public of the thorough risk assessment process, the agency aims to foster confidence in the safety and benefits of TELA Maize.
As genetically modified crops continue to be a topic of debate globally, NBMA’s rigorous evaluation process and transparent communication are critical in ensuring public trust and acceptance.
The agency’s commitment to safety and scientific rigor underscores its role in safeguarding the health of Nigerians while promoting agricultural innovation.
The introduction of TELA Maize marks a significant step in Nigeria’s efforts to adopt modern agricultural technologies to enhance food security and support sustainable farming practices.
With the backing of NBMA and other regulatory bodies, TELA Maize is poised to contribute positively to the country’s agricultural landscape.
